RAMSEY HIGH SCHOOL “Home of the Rams”

ATHLETIC HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND ATHLETES Follow Us On Twitter @Ramseyathletics

Mr. Kevin Sabella Athletic Director [email protected] (201) 785-2300 Ext. 21570

Ms. Laura Judge Athletic Trainer [email protected] (201) 785-2300 Ext. 21930

Ms. Pat Hogan Office Assistant to the Athletic Director [email protected] (201) 785-2300 Ext. 21571

For Athletic Schedules and other related information visit our website: www.ramsey.k12.nj.us Click Select A School, Ramsey High School, Athletics, Game Schedules Live

1 INTRODUCTION

This booklet has been written to enhance the communication between student/athletes, parents, coaches and school administrators.

The Ramsey School District has developed a Profile of a Ramsey Graduate that outlines certain competencies we seek to foster in our students and graduates. We provide athletic opportunities for our students in order to help them grow in the competencies laid out in the Profile of a Ramsey Graduate, which in turn will prepare students for success in life. Athletics is a tremendous vehicle that can promote student/athletes to become well-adjusted, independent, and upstanding citizens.

Athletic competition, by design, is filled with many challenges. Winning is not the most important thing, but the effort put forth to win is. Parents can make a big difference in the success of the athletic program by encouraging their student/athletes and by supporting the efforts of the coaches. We expect coaches to constantly keep a line of communication with student/Athletes regarding skill building, their role on the team, overall wellness, and support or intervention to promote student growth. Both parents and student/athletes should contact coaches when situations arise for clarification, understanding and/or counsel.

Parents and student/athletes are asked to familiarize themselves with the contents of this booklet. Any general concerns or questions can be directed to Mr. Kevin Sabella (201) 785-2300 x 21570. Questions regarding a specific sport should be directed to the head coach of that team.

The Ramsey High School Athletic Department is held in high regard within the Big North Conference, the NJSIAA and the county and state. Our athletes are expected to uphold this reputation by exhibiting the highest level of competition and sportsmanship. Ramsey athletes traditionally are known for the dedication to their sport, intense competitive spirit and respect for both opponents and officials.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Ramsey School District prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the Office of Special Education.

2 PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES

It is the intent of the Board of Education to provide in the High School a comprehensive, well planned, and well balanced program of interscholastic athletics for students who can benefit from participation. Athletics is an avenue for our students to practice what we have outlined in the Profile of a Graduate document displayed below. Participation in athletics allows our students to have tangible experiences where they will reflect, empathize, be adaptable, be responsible, be self-directed, think critically, communicate, collaborate, and be creative. The program shall be managed and teams coached in a manner to achieve the following objectives:

● Promote individual and team desire for excellence while emphasizing that interscholastic sports be kept in perspective and that the first priority for all students is intellectual and emotional growth. ● Encourage enjoyment of competition, a desire to win, and a healthy, constructive attitude toward winning and losing. ● Develop the self-confidence and self-respect of each team member. ● Develop the specialized talents, skills, and physical fitness of each participant. ● Develop attitudes and interpersonal skills that foster teamwork, cooperation, loyalty and spirit. ● Develop the highest standard of sportsmanship, sense of fair play, and respect for fellow athletes (teammates and opponents), coaches and officials. ● Being a member of a team, regardless of time spent in actual competition, a person can learn many valuable lessons. Among them are the following: citizenship, sportsmanship, appreciation of others abilities, teamwork, responsibility, commitment, loyalty (placing team above oneself, learning to accept instruction and criticism, respect for others, winning and losing with dignity, self control, and being responsible for one’s own actions).

3 GENERAL INFORMATION

● The Fall Season begins in late August and ends in November with the Sports Award Evening held in the Auditorium for all Varsity Sports ● The Winter Season may begin practice the Monday before Thanksgiving and concludes in late February. With Some state playoffs going through the first week in March. The Sports Award Evening will be held in the Auditorium the night after the last state championship scheduled game. ● The Spring Season begins on the first Friday of March and continues through May. Baseball, Softball and Track State Playoffs could go as late as the first week in June.

State and County tournaments can extend the season for teams.

There are practices and/or games after school every day. Practices usually start at 3:00 p.m. and conclude at approximately 5:30 p.m. Most sports will also practice on Saturdays and/or have games.

Travel to and from away games may require some teams to be dismissed from school early. Students are responsible for work missed or assigned when this occurs. Every attempt is made by the school and the league to keep these games to an absolute minimum.

The first priority of all students/athletes is their school work. Students/athletes will be excused from practice to make up tests or receive extra help. Studies have shown that students/athletes can maintain a high level of academic performance if they make effective use of their unscheduled time. Experience indicates that “in season” students/athletes should be discouraged from working or playing other sports during a season of athletic participation.

4 RAMSEY HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETIC PROGRAM OFFERINGS

FALL Teams Levels

Cheer Varsity Cross Country Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Football Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Field Hockey Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Soccer Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Tennis Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Volleyball Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman

WINTER Teams Levels

Cheer Varsity Basketball Boys Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Basketball Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Bowling Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Ice Hockey Varsity, Junior Varsity Swimming Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Winter Track Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Wrestling Varsity, Junior Varsity

SPRING Teams Levels

Baseball Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Golf Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Lacrosse Boys Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Lacrosse Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity Softball Varsity, Junior Varsity Tennis Boys Varsity, Junior Varsity Track and Field Boys/Girls Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman

Ramsey Athletics provides students an opportunity of 28 Varsity teams, 27 Junior Varsity and 14 Freshman teams for a total of 69 teams.

5 Dear Parent,

Athletics at Ramsey are an outgrowth of the educational process. It is a place where students with athletic skills can enhance them. This letter will outline some of our philosophies and goals of the athletic program. Hopefully this will help you gain a better understanding of how a competitive interscholastic program is conducted and what comprises our expectations. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call or email me at [email protected]

1. In each program, a coach and/or coaches are hired to be responsible for that program. Part of this responsibility is team selection. Criteria for selection are established by the head coach with input from their assistants. This may be a highly subjective process. Team selection, practices, and decisions regarding game situations and playing time are the responsibility of the coaching staff. 2. The Ramsey High School athletic program is highly competitive. Please understand that when your child signs up for a team, there is a very real possibility they may not be ​ selected if a squad reduction is necessary, or they may not be placed where you or they think they should; i.e. JV or Varsity. Coaches try to do the very best they can in keeping the most talented athletes, filling positions for play, and placing the athlete on the proper team. Our coaches are under a good deal of pressure to assemble the most competitive team possible. Any one of us might select different athletes for our teams. I believe it is the coach’s responsibility and right to select the team with whom they will work the entire season. 3. The select team or club team syndrome: Each coach looks for something different in their players. Participation on a select or club team does not guarantee any player a spot on another select or club team or on any high school team either. While players can gain valuable experience playing outside the school athletic program, neither parents no students should count on this type of participation to guarantee a spot on a high school team. 4. Playing time is something that is earned during practice. A coach must have confidence that a player they put into a game can function at that level of competition. This means the player must have demonstrated athletic competence, an understanding of the game plan, and the required level of conditioning necessary to perform. It is the coaches right to make these decisions. Our program structure (freshmen, JV, and Varsity) allows for growth of the student, and the opportunity to demonstrate that they have earned the privilege to play. Starting positions and playing time are not guaranteed to seniors or anyone else. This is also up to the coaches discretion. Each team member is valuable to the team’s overall progress. Some members may play a great deal, while others may not. Each athlete should have personal improvement as one of their goals. 5. Inappropriate or unbecoming behavior by a parent/guardian either at an event or on social media will be dealt with by the Administration and repercussions may include, but are not limited to, removal from the present event and/or all future events. 6. Communication with coaches should be limited. All schedule changes and logistical issues should be sent through the “Remind” app to the athletes. Any issues with your son/daughter should go through the proper channels which are outlined on page 20-22.

6 Freshman Sports The purpose of the freshman level is to: ● Develop and refine basic skills, learn the rules as they pertain to interscholastic sports ● Transition athletes from recreation level sports to interscholastic level sports ● Provide playing time to all participants at the coach’s discretion The Freshman team will consist of 9th graders who have demonstrated intellectual development, proper attitude, physical and sport specific skills which indicate a potential to someday perform at the varsity level. The number of players selected for each team may vary from sport to sport.

Junior Varsity Sports The purpose of the junior varsity level is to: ● Further develop the skills of the athlete ● Increase the intensity of competition ● Prepare the athlete for the varsity level ● Place more emphasis on winning, but not to the extent of the varsity level ● Provide playing time to all participants at the coach’s discretion The Junior Varsity team will consist of primarily sophomores and possibly a few juniors and/or freshmen that have demonstrated the ability to contribute at the JV level. The JV players must exhibit intellectual development, proper attitude, physical and sport specific skills indicative of a varsity performer. In rare circumstances, a junior who shows the potential to be a varsity starter or a key contributor as a senior or who is a part time varsity player may play JV if the varsity is particularly strong at his/her position. The number of players selected for each team may vary from sport to sport.

Varsity Sports The purpose of the varsity level is to: ● Develop skills and physical conditioning of the athlete to his or her fullest potential ● Allow the talented athlete the change to excel ● Provide athletes with the opportunities to set goals, strive to achieve them, and serve as role models for younger athletes ● Program goals include winning, team building skills, and enjoyment of the activity ● Coaches will notify students during the pre-season whom they feel may see limited playing time The Varsity team will normally consist of juniors and seniors, but freshmen and sophomores who have demonstrated the ability to be starters or key contributors may also be members of the team. The Varsity player must show the mental development, proper attitude, physical and sport specific skills to be starters or essential contributors to the success of the team. The numbers of players selected for each team varies from sport to sport.

Note: Regardless of the level, every player must demonstrate the skills needed to be a member of the athletic program for which he/she is trying out. No player is guaranteed a position in the present year simply because he or she was a part of the program the previous year.

7 EXPECTATIONS AND COMMITMENT OF STUDENT ATHLETES

Student athletes are expected to adhere to all school policies. In addition, student athletes are to:

1. Maximize their academic performance by attending class every day, by being attentive in class, and by doing homework assignments conscientiously.

2. Conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on their family, their team, their school, and themselves.

3. Adhere to the school Alcohol and Drug Policy. Ramifications are clearly stated in the BOE Policy 5530.

4. Make a commitment to your sport by attending all contests, practices, team meetings, and other team related activities. This includes vacation periods as well as weekends.

5. Commit to your in-season school sport. Athletes are not to miss contests, practices, team meetings, or other team related activities due to conflicts with non-school or out-of-season sporting activities. Participating in these activities risks injury and jeopardizes the in-season school sport. If a player cannot commit to this policy, he/she should not participate in the school sport.

6. Avoid scheduling activities that conflict with contests, practices, meetings, and other team related activities during the season. All student/athletes are strongly encouraged to have their families make an attempt to change vacation plans made to a particular season. If this cannot be done, the student/athlete will set one game for each one missed during vacation.

7. Notify coaches as much in advance as possible of absences required for attendance at religious services or ceremonies. These will be considered excused absences.

8. Comply with additional rules that are team specific and are reflected in the sport specific handbook. Disciplinary action could include suspension or removal from the team.

Athletes who have concerns or complaints should sit down with the Head Coach of the sport to discuss the issue. If there remains a concern, student and parent should follow up with a meeting with the Head Coach and Athletic Director. Playing time is not an issue to be discussed with the Athletic Director.

8

ELIGIBILITY

WELLNESS

Any student who wishes may try out for any Ramsey High School athletic team. The student must provide the Health Information form, which is to be completed and signed by their family physician. All other State and Health Registration forms can be completed in the FamilyID electronic registration available on the website. Coaches will share this information with students at pre-season meetings.

NJSIAA

● A student must reside in the Ramsey School District designated area. ● A student must be enrolled at Ramsey High School. ● Home Schooled Students can participate in activities if approved by the Ramsey Board of Education. ● A student must be in good academic standing, (complete 30 credits from the previous school year or 15 credits from the first semester of the school).

AGE

A student cannot participate in interscholastic athletics if he/she has reached the age of 19 prior to September 1st of the current school year.

ACADEMIC

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR FALL AND WINTER SPORTS A STUDENT MUST HAVE PASSED 30 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ CREDITS DURING THE PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR SPRING SPORTS A STUDENT MUST BE PASSING 15 CREDITS ​ ​ ​ ​ DURING THE FALL/WINTER SEMESTER.

ALL 9TH GRADE STUDENTS ARE AUTOMATICALLY ELIGIBLE IN HIS/HER FIRST SEMESTER.

ATTENDANCE

9 In order for a student to participate in a scheduled athletic event, practice or school function, he/she must be in school on the day of the event or the last day prior to a Saturday/Sunday event for a total of four (4) hours or have to be in school from 10:42 a.m. - 2:43 pm., or can be dismissed no earlier than noon. INVOLVEMENT IN MULTIPLE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Ramsey High School encourages students to participate in multiple school activities throughout the year, although there will be conflicts. The following guidelines will be used so that all coaches and athletes understand the philosophy of the administration, which will not permit any consequence for choosing one school activity over another:

● If both activities are practicing or participating in actual events at the same time, then the student may select the activity which he/she chooses, without fear of disciplinary action. ● If there is a conflict between a school event and a school practice, the student will participate in the school event. ● A school event should always take precedence over a non-school activity or event.

Athletes are strongly encouraged to talk with their coaches regarding conflicts in scheduling or any other problems as soon as they are discovered.

● Students with athletic activities that conflict with co-curricular activities must bring these conflicts to the attention of the coach and co-curricular advisor as soon as they become known. ● Conflicts involving two activities (such as student council and sports) should be resolved amicably by the advisor and coach with the best interests of the student in mind. ● If students have too many conflicts, they need to make responsible decisions with their parents as to which activities they will continue. ● Conflicts, which cannot be resolved, should be brought to the Athletic Director for resolution.

SQUAD SELECTION

Philosophy: In accordance with our philosophy of athletics and our desire to see as many students as possible participate while at Ramsey High School, we encourage coaches to keep as many students as they can without unbalancing the integrity of their sport. Obviously, time, space, facilities, equipment, personal preference, and other factors will place limitations on the most effective squad size for any particular sport. However, when developing policy in this regard, we strive to maximize the opportunities for our students without diluting the quality of the program.

10

REDUCTION POLICY A. Responsibility 1. Choosing the members of the athletic squads is the sole responsibility of the coaches of those squads. 2. Lower level coaches shall take into consideration the policies as established by the Head Coach of that particular program when selecting final team rosters. 3. Prior to trying out, the coach shall provide the following information to all candidates for the team: a. Extend of try-out period b. Criteria used to select the team c. Number to be selected d. Practice commitment if they make the team e. Game commitment B. Procedure ​ 1. When a squad reduction becomes a necessity, each candidate shall: a. Have completed in a minimum of three practice sessions b. Be personally informed of the reduction by the coach and the reason for that reduction c. Reduction lists are not to be posted or student athletes will not be called over the loud-speaker. d. Coaches will discuss alternative possibilities for participation in the sport e. If a coach foresees difficulties arising as the result of squad reduction, he/she should discuss the situation with the Athletic Director ​ ​

DISQUALIFICATIONS As per N.J.S.I.A.A. rule 2, note 4, any student or coach disqualified before, during or after any interscholastic event for unsportsmanlike and flagrant verbal or physical misconduct will be disqualified from the next two regularly scheduled games/meets, with the exception of football which will carry a one game suspension.

The Athletic Director, in conjunction with the Principal may suspend a student-athlete from additional interscholastic contests depending upon the severity of the infraction. This may be implemented at the discretion of the administration upon reviewing such incident.

11

NEW JERSEY STATE INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NJSIAA)

Ramsey High School is a member of the NJSIAA and the Big North Conference. The ​ NJSIAA is a private, non-profit, voluntary organization responsible for regulating interscholastic athletics in New Jersey. The NJSIAA governs and controls all the sports programs offered to ​ ​ high school boys and girls.

Over the past three decades, the NJSIAA has broken new ground in a number of areas, including a dramatic increase in women’s sports, considerable streamlining of eligibility requirements so as to focus on academic consideration, and further regulation of leagues and conferences throughout the state in order to provide equal opportunities for all schools to become members of an athletic conference suitable to their geographic location and/or size.

The NJSIAA provides a number of quality tournaments (30) to meet the needs of student athletes in New Jersey. All tournaments are conducted within specific guidelines and are conducted in an education-based atmosphere. The quality of the athletic experience depends largely on the administrators, coaches and officials who interact regularly with our young people. The NJSIAA continuously provides training for these leaders as role models through workshops, clinics, videos, and other education resources.

THE NJSIAA is made up of public and non-public (private and parochial) high schools in New Jersey. Today, approximately 425 schools are members of the NJSIAA.

The NJSIAA headquarters is located in Robbinsville, approximately 12 miles northeast of Trenton. They can be contacted by phone (609) 259-2776.

NJSIAA PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS

The NJSIAA Constitution, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations have for all intents and purposes define the 12-month sequence of participation in the following manner: A. In-Season B. Out-of-Season C. Summer Recess

12 (A)In-Season

Athletes are able to participate in their desired athletic team within the following datelines: Fall - summer practice sessions (as determined by individual schools) through NJSIAA play-off ​ schedule in November and December. Winter - November 15 (Bowling, Ice Hockey, Swimming) or the day after Thanksgiving, for all ​ other winter sports, through NJSIAA tournament schedule in March. Spring - first Friday in March through NJSIAA play-off schedule in June. Specific sport ​ seasons (practice) will begin according to the following schedule.

Summer practice sessions for all sports will be determined by the Ramsey High School Athletic Department and be approved by the Board of Education.

Note: The official starting date for fall practice is established by the NJSIAA Summer Recess Practice guidelines. Scheduling fall scrimmages will be made in accordance to these guidelines. Fall coaches will determine their first day of summer practice.

(B) Out of Season ​ ​

During this period, athletes may NOT be involved in intramurals in which they have attained team status.

Open gym and recreation participation are permitted for players as long as their coaches are not present.

Camp/clinic and local community sponsored recreation programs participation is permitted for players provided their coaches are not involved.

(C) Summer Recess ​

Schools may conduct practice sessions during the summer recess period. Athletes are permitted to participate in school-sponsored practices. Participation is ENCOURAGED but not MANDATORY.

During the summer recess period, an INDIVIDUAL athlete may not be sponsored or supported by a school or school-related group (Ramsey Parent Athletic Association) when team-interscholastic or individual competition takes place as part of the activity in camps, clinics or recreation programs. However, activities such as camps, competition and other activities that

13 are available to all athletes interested in participating may under certain circumstances be appropriate for school or school related group sponsorship.

From the last NJSIAA schedule spring championship to the first day of the next school term, all restrictions are rescinded for practice for all sports. Schools may issue any and all equipment for practice use during the summer recess and the local school district may determine to what extent the school, the coaches, and the students are to be involved in the “summer recess” program.

TRANSFER RULE

The following NJSIAA RULE applies to all students: ​ ​

1. A student who transfers from one secondary school to another because of a bona-fide change of residence by his/her parent/guardian, or through assignment by the Board of Education, becomes eligible to represent his/her new school immediately upon entrance (unless recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage is proven), provided all other eligibility regulations are satisfied. DEFINITION: a bona fide change of residence ​ ​ takes place when the parent/guardian moves with the student from one public high school district to another public high school district. 2. A student transferring from one secondary school to another, without a bona fide change of residence by that student’s parent/guardian, shall be ineligible to participate for thirty (30) calendar days which shall commence with the first interscholastic contest played by the involved school, at any level, if that student has participated on the Varsity level in a particular sport at the previous school. The student shall be ineligible for competition at ​ ​ any level (including scrimmages) until the full thirty (30) day period of ineligibility has been served and there will be no waivers of this provision. A student who has not ​ participated on the Varsity level in a sport at his or her previous school shall be eligible to ​ participate immediately at any level in that sport at the new school. To prevent possible recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage, a Transfer Form must be executed by the two involved schools and filed with the NJSIAA before any interscholastic participation whenever a bona fide change of residence by the parents/guardians has not taken place. 3. To prevent recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage, a TRANSFER WAIVER FORM (TWF) must be processed by the two schools involved and filed with the ​ NJSIAA. Please complete and submit the TWF to the Athletic Office as soon as ​ possible.

14 THE BIG NORTH CONFERENCE: THE BNC

Ramsey High School is a member of the Big North Conference.. The BNC was established in 2009 by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association, NJSIAA. In the 2010-2011 school year, Ramsey High School became a CHARTER member of the “Big North Conference”. The Big North is comprised of 42 schools - all located in Bergen and Passaic counties. The Big North will contain schools of varying size i.e., Group I, II, III and IV - with Group IV schools having the largest enrollment. Private and parochial schools will also be part of the Big North providing that they are members of the NJSIAA as well.

Groups are determined by the enrollment of students in grades 9, 10, 11 for each of the member schools. Ramsey High School is presently classified as a Group II school by the NJSIAA. Ramsey High School competes in the North 1 Section 2 of the state. On occasion, the NJSIAA may assign a Ramsey athletic team to compete in a State Tournament in a Group other than Group II.

The big North Conference will organize all 42 members into different divisions based on enrollment and geography. Schools may compete in different divisions throughout the year. The number of schools that sponsor a particular sport will determine the number of divisions. A divisional champion will be declared based on a team record within divisional play. Updated information concerning the Big North will be provided to you throughout the next few months.

These are the schools in the American Division of the Big North Conference: ​ ​

Cliffside Park Dumont Fort Lee Mahwah Pascack Hills Ramsey Ridgefield Park Westwood

15 SPORTSMANSHIP

Sportsmanship, the quality of fair play, is of the utmost importance and is the highest priority for our athletic program.

The NJSIAA and The Big North Conference Spectator Code of Behavior for athletic events will be posted at all athletic venues.

Spectators have an important role in the success of an athletic program. If the program is going to be successful, spectators must display good sportsmanship, courteous treatment of visitors and officials and absolute fairness under all conditions. It is important that spectators allow the players to play, the coaches to coach and the officials to officiate at all times. All spectators must follow the Super Essex Conference Spectator Code of Behavior for all athletic contests.

Please review the Big North Conference Code of Behavior with your son/daughter.

BIG NORTH CODE OF BEHAVIOR FOR ATHLETIC EVENTS

Be a Positive Role Model Fans, Coaches and Players are expected

● To honor and obey all rules and regulations of the NJSIAA and the Big North Conference ● Enthusiastically encourage your own team ● Refrain from negative remarks,booing, demeaning chants, gestures, etc. ● Treat the opponent, the officials, and other fans with respect and courtesy. Their safety and comfort should never be endangered ● Accept all decisions made by the officials ● Remain in the stands while play is in progress ● Follow state regulations that prohibit noisemakers, signs and banners

Any person obviously and intentionally violating the letter or spirit of the code will be subject to ejection from the contest and may not be allowed to attend further athletic events.

PLAYERS

● Good sportsmanship is the mark of a good player ● Do not swear or fight. Use self-control ● Do nothing which will bring discredit to your school

16 ● Win graciously; lose without alibi ● Accept official’s judgement without question ● Give the best that is in you for your team and school ● Avoid any reference to color, creed or nationality of your opponents ● All team cheering should be positive with no intimidating or demeaning chants, gestures, etc. ● All players must follow the NJSIAA and BNC Code of behavior for Athletic Contests

SPECTATORS

Spectators have an important role in the success of an athletic program. If the program is going to be successful, spectators must encourage good sportsmanship, courteous treatment of visitors, and absolute fairness under all conditions. It is important that spectators allow the athletes to play the game, the coaches to coach and the officials to officiate. All spectators must follow the NJSIAA and BNC Code of Behavior for Athletic Events.

If any of the above points are not followed, removal from the activity will be sought by the security personnel present.

CONTEST DISQUALIFICATION

An athlete/spectator who displays unsportsmanlike flagrant misconduct, physical or verbal, will be disqualified from the next two regularly scheduled games/meets, with the exception of football, which will carry a one game disqualification (approximately 10% of scheduled contests). Disqualification/ejection is a judgment call by the official and the decision is final and may not be appealed.

A disqualified player/spectator may not be present at any contest in that sport during the period of disqualification (not to be present in the locker room, on the bus, on the sidelines, or in the bleachers/stands before, during or after the game).

Any player/spectator disqualified a second time during a 365 day period from the first disqualification will have the penalty doubled. On the third offense, the player/spectator will be suspended indefinitely and must apply in writing to the NJSIAA, through the office of his/her principal for reinstatement.

17 ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM

The athletic training room will normally open every day at 2:00 p.m. Ms. Laura Judge, our trainer, can be reached at (201) 785-2300 ext. 21930. Services include injury prevention strategies, injury assessment, taping treatment and rehabilitation. Athletes and parents must report all injuries to their coaches and the athletic trainer as soon as they occur.

Athletes who sustain an injury during an athletic related activity, must report it to his/her coach and the athletic trainer IMMEDIATELY. The athletic trainer will then be responsible for ​ ​ forwarding the information to the appropriate personnel. If any injury occurs outside of school, it must be reported to the coach prior to the athlete’s next practice or game.

If your son/daughter is seen by a physician for an injury or illness sustained at a school sponsored athletic event, and has not been evaluated by the athletic trainer, he/she must submit a letter to the athletic trainer from the treating physician stating the diagnosis, treatment, and/or, if any, restrictions before he/she is permitted to return to athletic participation. Emergency room ​ clearances including, but not limited to, (i.e. urgent care facilities) are not acceptable for return to play status. The athlete must be seen by a primary care, pediatrician, or specialist in regards to the injury.

It should be noted that when an athlete suffers a concussion, additional precautions will be taken and protocols followed before he/she is permitted to return to practice. In all instances a physician’s clearance is necessary before an athlete can return to practices/games. The Concussion Management Protocol follows. All questions must be directed to Mr. Kevin Sabella, (201) 785-2300 ext. 21570 or Ms. Andria Nemeth, School Nurse, ext. 21515. All New Jersey State guidelines are followed before an athlete may return to play.

CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT AND RETURN TO PLAY

Purpose: To provide a standardized protocol for Athletic Trainers (ATC) to manage and return ​ to play after they have suffered a concussion.

Protocol: On the day of the concussion, the ATC will have the athlete complete a Symptom ​ Scale. The Symptom Scale shall be kept on file in the trainer’s room. 1. The ATC will refer the athlete to their Primary Care Physician (PCP) or the Team Doctor (TD) for evaluation. 2. The ATC receives documentation from the PCP or TD that states the athlete is cleared to Return To Practice (RTP).

18 3. The ATC will have the athlete complete a follow-up Symptom Scale. 4. The ATC allows 3 days from date of clearance for athlete to resume all normal activities in academic, social and family life. If any concussion symptoms do re-occur, the athlete will return to his/her PCT/TD for reevaluation. 5. If symptom-free for 3 days, ATC may begin 5 day exercise protocol. The athlete must be monitored during this time for any re-occurrance of concussion symptoms. 6. If concussion symptoms reoccur during the exercise protocol, the athlete will return to previous level of activity that caused no symptoms, and then advance as tolerated.

Exercise Protocol Day 1 - Stationary Bike for 30-40 minutes at 60% max heart rate Day 2 - Jogging or treadmill for 30-40 minutes at 70% max heart rate Day 3 - Functional Activities & Sport Specific Drills Day 4 - Push-ups, sit-ups, weight training Day 5 - Non-contact full practice Day 6 - Full Contact practice

Please Note: The timeline the athlete is removed from practice/contests in 8 days from the time he/she is released (symptom free) by their PCP or TD. By following this protocol wer will help to ensure that the athlete returns safely and without further complications. The ATC will be in contact with the athlete and his/her parents/guardians consistently throughout the process.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS THAT MAY INDICATE THAT A CONCUSSION HAS OCCURRED: 1. Signs - Observed by a member of the coaching staff, athletic trainer or physician: ​ ● Appears dazed or stunned ● Answers questions slowly ● Is confused about assignment ● Loses consciousness ● Forgets plays ● Shows behavior or ● Is unsure of game, score or personality changes opponent ● Can’t recall events prior to ● Moves clumsily hit

2. Symptoms - Reported by athlete: ​ ​ ● Headache ● Feeling sluggish ● Nausea ● Feeling foggy or groggy ● Balance problems or dizziness ● Concentration or memory ● Double or fuzzy vision ● Confusion ● Sensitivity to light or noise

19 WEIGHT TRAINING PROGRAM

No student is permitted to use the weight room without proper adult supervision and proper medical clearance. In order to maintain the safest facility possible, the supervising instructor will provide students with a weight training regimen.

In=season teams may utilize the weight room while a coach supervises them. In addition, the weight room is opened for those athletes not involved in a sport from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. DUring the summer months of July and August, the weight room is open for high school students and incoming 9th graders. The summer weight room hours will be posted.

ADMISSION PRICES TO ATHLETIC CONTESTS

At times spectators are charged an admission fee at home football, basketball and wrestling games/matches as well as for various tournaments that Ramsey High School may host. This practice also occurs when we compete at away sites. Non-tournament admission is usually $3.00/adults, $2.00/students and $1/Senior citizen.

RAMSEY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

The association is composed primarily of, but not limited to, parents of students involved in the district’s athletic programs. The club, however, does not limit itself solely to athletics but are receptive to cooperative efforts with other groups who are willing to become involved. Additional rules and limitations concerning Ramsey Athletic Association involvement will be distributed at the annual meeting.

PARENT-COACH COMMUNICATION

Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefits to children. As parents, when your child becomes involved in our athletic programs, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child program.

Prior to the start of each season, the coach will host an introductory meeting for all students interested in trying out for the team. The date and time of the meeting will be announced in the daily bulletin and will be posted on the athletic website and/or the Ramsey athletic twitter handle ​

20 (@Ramseyathletics). Specific items relative to the sport i.e., rules, policies, try-out period, practice and game schedules are reviewed and discussed at this time.

By design, athletic participation is filled with great challenges and great rewards. Parents, your role in your child’s overall athletic experience is paramount. By encouraging your child’s full commitment, by supporting coaches and official’s decisions and by instilling the principles of sportsmanship, you will prove invaluable to your child’s athletic experience. Winning is not the most important thing, but preparing to win is. Many of life’s important lessons, such as ​ discipline, commitment,teamwork and perseverance can be derived through participation in a well-designed athletic program.

The communication between the coach and the parent is essential to having an effective athletic program. The following coach-parent communication guidelines have been designed to foster appropriate lines of communication between the parent and the coach.

Communications you should expect from your child’s coach

1. His/Her Team Philosophy 2. Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all the players on the team 3. Location and times of all practices and contests 4. Team requirements: in and out of season 5. Procedure to follow if your child is injured during the season 6. Consequences for breaking team rules Communication Coaches expect from parents

1. Concerns expressed directly to the coach 2. Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance 3. Specific concern in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations

Your child will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their high school lives when they become involved in the athletic program; however, it is important to understand that there may also be times when things do not go the way you or your child would like. At these times discussion with the coach is encouraged.

Appropriate Concerns to Discuss with Coaches

1. The treatment of your child mentally and physically 2. Ways to help your child improve 3. Concerns about your child’s behavior

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It is very difficult to accept your child’s lack of playing time. Coaches are trained professionals. They make judgement decisions based on what they believe to be best for the team as a whole. As noted, certain issues can and should be discussed with your child’s coach. Other issues, such as those on the following page,must be left to the discretion of the coach.

Issues Not Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches

1. Playing time 2. Team Strategy 3. Play calling 4. Other student athletes

There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the others position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedures should be followed to help promote a resolution to the issue of concern.

1. Call to set up an appointment with the coach 2. The Ramsey High School telephone number is (201) 785-2300 3. If the coach cannot be reached, call Mr. Kevin Sabella, Director of Athletics, ex. 21570. A meeting will be scheduled at a mutually convenient time. 4. Please do not attempt to confront a coach directly before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature rarely result in resolution.

What can a Parent do if the meeting with the Coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution?

1. Call and set up an appointment with the Director of Athletics to discuss the situation Three questions will be asked prior to a meeting being set up. 1. Did you speak with with your son/daughter about the issue? 2. Did your son/daughter speak to the coach directly about the issue? 3. Did you meet with the coach including your son/daughter and speak about the issue directly? 2. A meeting will be set up with coach, parent and Athletic Director to continue the conversation and draw on a reasonable solution. 3. If an amenable solution is not achieved, a meeting with the parent, Athletic Director and High School Principal will be set up and further discussion will ensue.

22 4. If an amenable solution is not achieved a meeting with the parent, Athletic Director and Superintendent will be set up and further discussion will ensue. 5. If an amenable solution is not achieved the issue may rise to the level of the Board of Education. At this time written documentation will be needed and all parties involved will be asked for input.

HOW TO ESTABLISH RAPPORT WITH YOUR ATHLETIC CHILD Here are some golden rules.

1. Make sure your child knows win or lose, scared or heroic, that you love them, appreciate their efforts and are not disappointed in them. 2. Try your best to be completely honest about your child’s athletic capability, competitive attitude, sportsmanship, and actual skill level. 3. Be helpful but don’t coach on the way to the track, diamond, or court, on the way back at breakfast, and so on. 4. Teach them to enjoy the thrill of competition, trying, working, improving their skills, and attitudes taking the physical bumps and coming back for more. Don’t say winning doesn’t count, because it does. Instead., help them develop the feel for competing, trying hard and having fun. 5. Try not to relive your athletic life through your child in a way that creates pressure. Remember, you fumbled too, you lost as well as won, were frightened, backed off at times, and were not always heroic. Don’t pressure them because of your pride. 6. Don’t compete with the coach. The young athlete often comes home and chatters on about coach says this, coach says that. This, I realize, is often hard to take,especially for a father or a mother who has had some sports experience. 7. Don’t compare the skill, courage or attitudes of your child with that of other members of the squad or team, at least not in front of them. And if your child shows a tendency to resent the treatment they get from the coach, or the approval other team members get, be careful to talk over the facts quietly and try to provide fair and honest counsel. If you play the role of the overly protective parent who is blinded to the relative merits of your youngster and their actual status as an athlete and individual, you will merely perpetuate the problem. Your youngster could become a problem athlete. 8. You should get to know the coach so that you can be assured that his or her philosophy, attitudes, ethics and knowledge are such that you are happy to expose your child to them. The coach has a tremendous potential influence. 9. Always remember that children tend to exaggerate both when praised and when criticized. Temper your reactions to the tales of woe or heroics they bring home. Don’t cut your youngster down if you feel they are exaggerating - just take a look at the situation and gradually try to develop and even level.

23 10. Make a point of understanding courage, and the fact that is is relative. There are different kinds of courage. Some of us can climb mountains, but are frightened to get into a fight; others can flight without fear but turn to jelly if a bee approaches. Everyone is frightened in certain areas-nobody escapes fear and that is just as well since it often helps us avoid disaster. Explain to your youngster that courage does not mean an absence of fear but rather means doing something in spite of fear or discomfort.

TRAVEL DIRECTIONS

A directory of travel directions to schools that Ramsey High School participates in is available to all parents and fans at www.ramsey.k12.nj.us (Go to High School and then choose athletics and ​ then choose directions)

STUDENT INSURANCE PROGRAMS

The Board of Education will be providing, at no cost to parents, student accident insurance for all school time activities, as well as student and sports activities.

The plan will be administered through the C. W. Bollinger Insurance Company and will be on a full excess basis, which means that the parents must first submit their claim to their own health medical plan (Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Major Medical, etc.).

COLLEGE ATHLETIC PLANNING

Scholarship - Athletic scholarship from various colleges and universities are offered to student athletes whose talents and future athletic potentiality to the college program are judged solely by the coaching staff of the college that is offering such assistance.

The local high school coaching staff can assist by providing requested information and personal recommendations based upon their personal knowledge of the athlete. High school coaches do not “GET” scholarship for their athletes. The athlete must satisfy criteria established for such grants by the persuasion and past relationships with the colleges and/or its coaches; however, it must be clearly understood , the philosophical intent of the high school athletic program is NOT to guarantee college athletic scholarships to its participants. There are too many variables that cannot be controlled by the high school coach. Of course, we are very happy for any student who receives financial assistance to attend college, and as in all cases, we will make every effort to assist students in receiving such financial aid.

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All student-athletes who intend to go to college, whether through an athletic scholarship or not, are reminded again to review the section on college admissions. You are especially reminded that a strong college preparatory academic background is the most beneficial condition for acceptance to an institution of higher learning. In most instances, gifted athletic talent and outstanding athletic accomplishment is not sufficient for acceptance to reputable colleges if the academic background is poor and/or does not indicate predictability of successful academic matriculation.

At times students are placed under great pressure to succeed as athletes for the sole purpose of receiving a very rare college athletic scholarship. They often fail to realize this goal, and at the same time, miss out on fully achieving the many positive outcomes of the interscholastic athletic program. We encourage the student-athletes pursuit of participation, achievement, and excellence, and if a scholarship results, all the better.

N. C. A. A. CLEARING HOUSE

Since 1995 the N.C.A.A. has mandated that no student athlete shall be considered for a full academic qualifier unless he/she meets the standards on the sliding scale listed below.

The N.C.A.A. has established a central clearinghouse to certify students eligible for participation in Division I, Division IAA and Division II. Athletic scholarships only become available for students certified by The Clearinghouse. Below are some of the frequently asked questions by athletes and their parents concerning the N.C.A.A. Clearinghouse.

Why do I need to register and be certified? If you intend to participate in athletics at Division I, Division IAA and Division II as a freshman, you must be registered with and be certified as eligible by the N.C.A.A. Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse. Please note that initial-eligibility certification pertains only to whether you meet the N.C.A.A. requirements for participation in Division I, Division IAA and Division II and has no bearing on your admission to a particular institution.

To be certified for Division I, Division IAA and Division II, you need to graduate from high school and have a grade-point average in the core curriculum of at least 13 academic courses and achieve a qualifying test score on the ACT or SAT that is within the following academic sliding scale.

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When should I register? You should register with the clearinghouse whenever you decide you would like to participate in athletics as a college freshman. It generally is best to register after your junior year grades appear on your transcript. Although you can register any time prior to participation, if you register late, you may face delays that will prevent you from practicing and competing.

How do I register? You may obtain registration materials from the athletic office or from your high school guidance ​ ​ counselor. The NCAA recommends that you register online by contacting www.ncaaclearinghouse.org. These materials include a student release form and other pertinent ​ information. A fee must be forwarded at the time of your registration. (The fee can be waived if you received a waiver of the ACT or SAT test fee.) Your guidance counselor will forward an official copy of your high school transcript to the clearinghouse. NOTE: Faxed transcripts ​ are not acceptable.

What if I attended more than one school? If you have attended multiple high schools since ninth grade, each school will need to send your official transcript to the clearinghouse.. You should give the pink and yellow copies of the student release form to the counselor at the high school from which you will be graduating. You also will need to make copies of this form and send them to the counselors at the other schools you have attended.

Are standardized test scores required? Qualifying test scores are required for participation at Division I, Division IAA and Division II institutions. You may report scores directly from the testing agency using code 9999, or if your high school reports test scores on the official high school transcript, those scores may be used for eligibility purposes.

How can I arrange for my scores to be sent directly from the testing agency? When you register to take the ACT or the SAT, you can indicate code 9999 so that the clearinghouse will be one of the institutions receiving your scores; alternatively, you can submit a request (and fee) for an additional score report to the appropriate testing agency by indicating code 9999 on your request form.

What will the clearinghouse provide to those institutions that are recruiting me?

26 The clearinghouse will send your eligibility status to any Division I, Division IAA and Division II institution that requests it, provided you have given your permission on your student release form for the institution to receive that information. Please note that the clearinghouse will not send your eligibility information at your request; rather, the institution must make the request for that information.

How can I check on the status of my file at the clearinghouse? When you complete the student release form, be sure to enter 18, your Social Security Number and a 4-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). After you submit your form, you will then be able to call the 24-hour voice response service at (319) 339-3003 and access your record, using a touch-tone phone.

AWARDS

Awards are presented to students in the following categories.

1. End of Season Awards: At the end of each season, each ​ 2. Additional Awards: RHS may also present awards to seniors who qualify based on their athletic ability, scholarship, sportsmanship, citizenship and other criteria.

Guidance counselors, coaches, faculty and school administrators may make recommendations to the selection committee. The selection committee will consist of the athletic director, assistant principal, guidance counselor(s) and coach(s). A list of these awards can be attained from your guidance counselor.

ELIGIBILITY PROTECTION

Student athletes shall: Only accept awards such as: trophies, pins, and jackets which are approved by your Board of Education. 1. Never accept merchandise or cash 2. Never directly receive compensation for giving athletic instruction during the school year 3. You may bowl in an adult league, but you may not accept or have anyone accept for you any merchandise or cash 4. You may not accept any equipment or merchandise for personal use under any circumstances whatsoever

VARSITY LETTER REQUIREMENTS

27 Criteria for attaining a Varsity Letter are outlined on the individual coaches pages on the Ramsey High School Athletic Department website.

Students must end the season in good standing and return all school issued equipment and uniforms before they are eligible to receive their letter.

Any student that participated in ½ of their team’s quarters, periods, halves, matches, etc. (depending upon the sport) will earn a varsity letter, provided that they are in good standing and have returned all equipment. **One second of game time or one play of game action counts as a quarter, half, etc.

The head coach has the authority to award a student a varsity letter at their discretion, even if the athlete did not play the minimum required amount of quarters periods, etc. examples include: limited yet outstanding play, injury, etc.

Any seniors that were on the team for the entire season (official NJSIAA start of practices through playoffs) will receive a varsity letter, regardless of playing time.

Team managers, statisticians, and film volunteers are eligible for varsity letters at the discretion of the head coach.

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